Memory Safe Code for Embedded Systems Ada SPARK Rust in EEI 54

Elektor Engineering Insights #54 took place on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at 16:00 CEST (10:00 AM EDT, 14:00 UTC). In this edition, Elektor collaborated with AdaCore to delve into the significance of memory-safe programming languages in embedded and safety-critical systems. Quentin Ochem, the Chief Product and Revenue Officer at AdaCore, guided viewers through the practical applications and distinguishing features of Ada, SPARK, and Rust, shedding light on their impact on modern software reliability.

As security and resilience become paramount in embedded design, the session emphasized the benefits of formal verification, static analysis, and safe language toolchains. Quentin drew from his extensive experience working with industrial partners such as Nvidia, CodeSecure, and Ferrous Systems to underscore the importance of these practices in ensuring robust software development.

The key takeaways from EEI #54 included discussions on language trade-offs between Ada, SPARK, Rust, and legacy C/C++, the role of static analysis and formal methods in guaranteeing code safety, the relevance of memory-safe languages in contemporary embedded workflows, the current status of Rust specification and its adoption in industrial settings, and insights into AdaCore’s involvement in high-assurance software projects.

The session was hosted by Brian Tristam Williams and featured a live Q&A segment, enabling attendees to engage directly with Quentin on topics ranging from tooling trends to system security and next-gen development stacks.

As a special treat, attendees were given the opportunity to win 1 of 5 copies of Elektor’s hardcover book, "From Rubbing Amber to Swiping Glass," which celebrates the history and evolution of electricity in technology. This €25 engineering session was made free to attend, courtesy of sponsor Bridgetek. For those unable to join the live event, registration was available to receive the full replay.